How are we already at the end of another year?! We kicked off 2022 welcoming our newest cohort to the Tolcarne Whanau. The Year 9s were dressed in the new uniform, all looking swish and ready to take on a new school, make friends and see what life at Tolcarne was all about. It wasn’t long before our newbies had slotted in and daily life became the norm.

The sunshine kept the pool busy for the first few weeks, where we enjoyed lots of swimming and pool parties. This was a highlight for our after school activities, however some other favourites included, outings to Timezone, baking, jewellery making and the Masterchef Challenge! The activities carried on into the weekends, with the juniors having the option to head out and explore Dunedin more. Bex took them all over the city, from surfing and paddle boarding, to hot yoga, road trips and ice skating - there was always something to mix up the usual weekend routine.

One of the most important few weeks on the students social calendar would arguably be the formal season. There are hours of preparations for these events, planning the perfect outfit, deciding what tan to use and if the shoes will match! The seniors also had their nail bar evening, getting pampered, whilst sipping on drinks and enjoying nibbles from the kitchen - the good life! We love the formal hype and get excited to see our students enjoying themselves after a busy term.

This year we hosted a Pink Ribbon Breakfast. It was a great way for everyone to get involved in fundraising, supporting a cause close to many of our families and extended whanau. We were treated to a delicious breakfast and also held a bake sale at school, see the morning here. This was a success, helping us to raise over $800 for the Breast Cancer Foundation!

The middle two terms were busy with winter sports, having different tournaments and finals played. We were very proud of the students and how they carried themselves, no matter the outcome, they always came back with a smile and positive attitude!

We also had many students dancing, climbing, horse riding and completing various other extra curricular activities. Juggling these with school and social commitments means there is never a dull moment!

A few other middle term highlights would be the junior social (which the Tolcarne Council did a fabulous job of planning) and the Tolcarne Pj initiative, thanks to the Head Boarders!

In Term 3 we headed to Coronet Peak for our annual ski trip. This was a definite highlight, spending two days on the snow, hanging out with friends and indulging in Robyn’s delicious meals!

The Grandparents High Tea rolled around for the second year and Robyn created a lovely event. It was a very special afternoon and we were grateful that our grandparent whanau could share this with us (check out the afternoon here).

Our final hostel activity for the year was the Tribe Carnival. This was an absolute extravaganza, with everything from a bouncy castle race and tug of war, to Mrs Rathbone’s favourite ‘Douce the Director’...! After Highgate was awarded winners of the Tribe Competition, we had a feast for dinner. Some of which included, bao buns, sushi, a donut wall, lolly table and slushies! There were many happy faces and bellies, as we finished the evening sharing Secret Santa presents. Check out our video from the Carnival here!

Once the Year 13 students, parent whanau and staff celebrated the end of their time at Tolcarne with the Leavers’ Dinner, the seniors headed on study leave. This meant Tolcarne was a little quieter! The Year 9s headed off on Waihola Camp, having a night away with a range of outdoor activities - a lovely way to finish Koru for the year. See videos here from day one and day two!

Tolcarne was also excited to be nominated and then win the Business Integrity Award at the Grand Business South Awards Gala. This was a fantastic outcome and we are so proud of our courage culture that the staff have been leaning into, developing our overall integrity in the workplace. Thank you to everyone for all of your support 😍

We want to thank our Tolcarne community for their continued support throughout 2022, along with the students. A big thank you also to our wonderful team of hostel, kitchen and cleaning staff - it wouldn’t be possible without you all.

To our Tolcarne leavers, all the best! We can’t wait to see the adventures you head on and are very excited for this new chapter in your lives. “You’re off to great places, Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So… get on your way!” - Dr Seuss.

But for now, have a wonderful holiday break. Enjoy time with your special people, getting a sleep in (no morning bells!) and the holiday celebrations. We look forward to welcoming you all back next year, a year older and in a different corridor! Meri Kirihimete Tolcarne Whanau 🎄🎄🎄

Leavers Service